Traveling for spring break? Here’s how TSA is preparing for long lines
The Transportation Security Administration is offering tips for travelers as they prepare for the busy spring break travel period.
The government agency said it expects security officers to screen increasing numbers of passengers at airport checkpoints as travel volumes may exceed pre-pandemic levels between now and April 21.
To meet the demand, the TSA announced progress on enhanced security, checkpoint efficiency and passenger experience investments, including increasing public awareness about traveling with firearms and deploying new technology.
“In January, we experienced our first full month where travel volumes exceeded the same month in 2019,” administrator David Pekoske said. “We fully expect to see an upward trend in travel volumes throughout 2023, including during the spring break period.
“We coordinate closely with airports and air carriers to prepare for the projected increase in travel volumes and we expect to meet our wait time standards of 30 minutes or less in standard lanes and 10 minutes or less in TSA Precheck lanes,” Pekoske continued. “However, there may be some situations where the capacity of a checkpoint is exceeded.” TSA recommends these tips to ensure a smooth holiday journey: When packing, start with an empty bag to ensure you are not accidentally carrying prohibited items.
Alcoholic beverages with between 25% and 70% alcohol are limited in checked bags to 1.3 gallons per passenger and must be in unopened retail packaging. Alcoholic drinks with 24% alcohol or less are not subject to limitations in checked bags.
Passengers should arrive early to the airport and remember to be courteous to service providers and fellow travelers.
Consider a Precheck membership, which allows 92% of travelers to wait less than five minutes at checkpoints nationwide.